Extreme metal giants BEHEMOTH have revealed the title, cover artwork and release date of their upcoming album The S**t Ov God, out May 9th via Nuclear Blast Records. Alongside the title track, which is available to stream now, a lavish music video is premiering now (see below).
BEHEMOTH are known for not shying away from controversy – and with their 13th studio album they stay true to this line. 34 years after their formation, they deliver their most provocative and extreme work to date: eight songs that deal with humanity, divinity and rebellion – in a time when individuality is highly valued, but everyone clings to their saviors, be it musical, political or otherwise. The album title is entirely in keeping with this approach. Frontman and founder Nergal explains: ” We deliberately chose this provocative title to reject subtlety and instead make a direct, polarizing statement. It’s a defiant leap into the depths, a brave attempt to seek the absolute even in the gutter.”
Yet despite its obvious directness, the album title takes on a touch of genius when combined with the cleverly designed artwork, which features an upside-down version of the Christogram “IHS”.
Nergal comments: “I have reached a point in the journey of BEHEMOTH and my own creativity where words and explanations have less and less meaning. The true essence of who we are and what we stand for lies in our music, our art, our visuals, our sound, our performances and in the way we connect with you. I deeply believe that Behemoth embodies transcendent, timeless art. The number thirteen – so magical and meaningful. If this is our last album, I could walk away with pride. Without a doubt, this is the purest and clearest representation of BEHEMOTH. No filler, no superfluity – just the best we have to offer, for you. Hail Satan”
BEHEMOTH carefully selected the artists for the album’s visual design. Production was handled by the incomparable Jens Bogren of Fascination Street Studios (EMPEROR, ENSLAVED, KREATOR, ROTTING CHRIST, etc.). Working closely with the band, Bogren emphasized their natural sound without sacrificing the chaos and aggression that define BEHEMOTH‘s essence. As always, the visual concept was also developed with great care. The band worked with their long-time partner Bartek Rogalewicz (BLACK.LODGE.IS.NOW) and Dark Sigil Workshop to create the striking and dark cover artwork.
Reeder, the visionary behind Metal Addicts, has transformed his lifelong passion for metal into a thriving online community for metal aficionados. As a fervent devotee of black metal, Reeder is captivated by its dark, atmospheric, and often unorthodox soundscapes.